Chapter: Strength in the Unknown Aurora's POVThe laughter and chatter from the party echoed softly through the open window as I stood outside, leaning against the wall. The cool night air helped calm my nerves as I pulled out my phone and stared at the screen. I hadn’t spoken to Mina in weeks, and it gnawed at me every single day. But I couldn’t bring myself to text her. I was terrified that if I reached out, it would somehow lead Zayn back to me. Still, I couldn’t stay silent any longer. Mina deserved to know that I was okay—that I’d found some semblance of a life here. She was the only real friend I had left in the pack, and shutting her out like this was starting to hurt. I opened the message thread with her and started typing.**"Hey, Mina... I know it’s been a while. I got into the medical program. It’s crazy, right? I’m not sure what’s next, but I wanted to let you know I’m okay. I’m sorry I’ve been quiet. I just didn’t want to put you in any danger with Zayn. Please take c
Chapter: A Brewing Storm Zayn’s POVI leaned back in the leather chair of my office, my fingers drumming impatiently against the mahogany desk. My mother’s voice echoed faintly from downstairs, her high-pitched, overly excited tone bouncing off the walls of the packhouse. It didn’t take a genius to figure out what she was up to—again. Another woman. Another futile attempt to shove me into marriage. I’d lost count of how many times she’d pulled this stunt, parading around potential brides like they were prizes to be won.With a sigh, I stood up, straightening the cuffs of my shirt. The noise downstairs grew louder, and just as I expected, there was a sharp knock on the door. Before I could even respond, the door swung open, and in walked my mother, with a woman in tow—tall, beautiful, the picture of elegance. But I wasn’t in the mood.“Zayn,” my mother began, a wide smile on her face as she gestured toward the woman beside her. “I want you to meet Selene. She’s from one of the wealthi
Chapter: Shadows in the City Derek’s POVI could feel Zayn's eyes on me the moment I stepped out of that café. He wasn’t even trying to be discreet. The tension between us was like a coiled spring, always ready to snap. And I wasn’t going to let him get a single inch closer to Aurora, especially not now.The bag of baby supplies felt heavier in my hand than it should have. Each step I took, I was calculating. I knew Zayn was watching me, trying to figure out where I was headed. He might not have put two and two together yet, but I wasn’t going to take any chances. I glanced over my shoulder subtly. There he was, keeping his distance but following all the same. Damn it, Zayn. Always needing to control things, always needing answers. The kind of man who couldn’t stand not being the one in charge. The thought of him finding out about Aurora, especially now that she was pregnant, sent a chill through me. I’d never forgive myself if I led him straight to her.I slipped into the hospital
Aurora's POVSomething was off with Derek. I could feel it the moment he walked back into the room. He had that look—like he was holding something back, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. The baby supplies he brought in should’ve made me smile, but instead, it only deepened the unease in my stomach.Derek had been practically acting like the father of this child since the beginning. It was sweet, really. Having someone who cared for me like he did—it was comforting in a way I hadn’t experienced in a long time. He was trying to protect me, but at what cost?He walked upstairs, probably trying to avoid a conversation, but then his phone beeped on the table. I didn’t mean to pry, but my eyes drifted to the screen, and I froze._“It was a nice meeting today. Let’s do it another time.”_Zayn.My stomach flipped. Suddenly, my world tilted, and dizziness washed over me like a tidal wave. What was going on? Did Derek meet Zayn? Was he betraying me? How could he? My mind spiraled into a chaot
### Chapter: A New Beginning #### Aurora's POVI was struggling—my body felt like it was being torn apart from the inside, and the pressure was unbearable. Every fiber of my being wanted to give up, but I couldn’t. I wouldn’t. I had to see this through.Liv was by my side, her voice calm and steady as she kept telling me to breathe, to push, to hold on just a little longer. The midwife was focused, instructing me with every push, her hands ready to catch the life that was about to emerge. The other ladies were also there, murmuring words of encouragement, but it all felt like a blur. “Come on, Aurora,” Liv urged gently, wiping the sweat from my forehead. “You’ve got this. You’re almost there.”Almost there. That’s what they’d been telling me for what felt like hours, but I was still holding on, still trapped in this storm of pain and uncertainty. Derek’s voice filtered in from the other room, his words soft but constant. “You’re doing amazing, Aurora. I’m here. You can do this,” h
Aurora's POVThe celebration had been a whirlwind. Everyone was still buzzing from the joy of Aria and Elian’s birth, and our lives were settling into a new rhythm. Liz had been a godsend, taking care of the babies whenever I needed a break, and Derek was always nearby, providing support when I felt overwhelmed. But even in the joy of motherhood, there was something weighing on me. Mina still hadn’t replied to my messages. It had been months now, and the silence was unnerving. Every day, I checked my phone, hoping for some kind of response, but nothing came. A part of me feared that my past had caught up to her, and that Zayn had found out about something or even hurt her Today, Derek and I decided to head into the city for some errands. Liz had stayed back with the twins, happily taking on her role as the world’s best babysitter. We hadn’t been out much since the babies were born, so I was looking forward to some time away. But as soon as we stepped into the crowded streets, someth
Five Years Later Aurora’s POVThe sun was shining brightly overhead as I stood in my graduation gown, surrounded by the cheers of my classmates and the warm embrace of my twins. Today was the day. After five years of hard work, late nights, and an endless amount of sacrifice, I was finally graduating from medical school. The weight of my accomplishment hadn’t fully hit me yet, but the pride in the eyes of those around me said it all.Aria and Elian, now five years old, ran up to me with bright smiles and bouquets of flowers in their tiny hands. “Mommy! Mommy! We got you flowers!” Aria exclaimed, her little voice filled with excitement.I knelt down to hug them both tightly, tears threatening to spill over as I kissed their cheeks. “Thank you, my loves. You both make me so proud.”Elian, always the quiet one, shyly handed over his bouquet. “You’re the best doctor, Mama.”I chuckled softly, my heart swelling. “I’m not quite a doctor yet, but soon. And I did all of this for you two.”A
### Chapter: A New Beginning #### Aurora’s POVI sat at my desk, my laptop open and several documents spread across the table. The kids were playing quietly in the other room, their giggles echoing faintly down the hall. My heart raced as I scrolled through my financials, going over everything one last time before making the call. This project had been brewing in my mind for years—ever since I started my studies and realized how many werewolves suffered in silence, unable to access proper medical care. Now, it was finally time to turn my dreams into reality.I took a deep breath and grabbed my phone, dialing Derek’s number. He picked up on the second ring.“Hey, you,” he greeted warmly. I could hear the familiar sounds of his clinic in the background. “How are the twins?”“Full of energy as always,” I replied with a chuckle. “But I called because I need to talk to you about something important.”His tone shifted immediately, becoming more serious. “I’m listening.”“I’ve been thinki
The day had arrived, my birthday and the grand opening of the hospital. It was surreal seeing my dream come to life in the heart of the pack. From the moment I woke up, the house buzzed with activity. Liv was running around giving orders, my mom was double-checking last-minute details, and Zayn’s mom was in charge of the kitchen, ensuring the food would be nothing short of spectacular. I slipped into a pale blue dress that hugged me perfectly. Zayn had picked it out, and though I teased him about his choices sometimes, this one was flawless. As I stood in front of the mirror, Elian and Aria burst into my room, shouting, *“Happy Birthday, Mommy!”* They each held small bouquets of flowers, their grins lighting up my morning. “Thank you, my loves!” I scooped them into a hug, my heart swelling. They were more excited about today than I was, bouncing on their heels and talking over each other about “surprises.” I kissed their foreheads and shooed them out to finish getting ready. Whe
The soft breeze kissed my skin as I stood on the balcony, gazing out at the bustling preparations below. Everyone was hard at work, ensuring everything was perfect for the hospital’s grand opening, which also happened to be on my birthday. Liv had flown in from the city just a few days ago, and her organizational skills were in full force, balancing between logistics and last-minute details. Zayn’s mom and mine had joined forces, taking charge of decorations and refreshments. It was like watching two generals at work, directing the army of helpers with precision and flair. As much as I trusted them, nerves still fluttered in my stomach. I gripped the railing, my thoughts racing between excitement and anxiety. This hospital was more than a building; it was a culmination of years of dreams, struggles, and hope. I couldn’t afford for anything to go wrong. Suddenly, two strong arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me out of my thoughts. I gasped in surprise as Zayn’s deep laugh filled t
The ride back home was filled with laughter and endless chatter. Aria and Elian could barely contain their excitement as they recounted every detail of their time at Zayn’s house. “Mommy, did you know Daddy has a giant sword in his room?” Aria squealed, bouncing in her seat. “He said it’s for special fights! And oh! Grandma made me dresses—so many dresses! And I got to spin in them like a princess!” Elian, who was usually more reserved, chimed in. “Dad took me to the training grounds. He said I could be Alpha one day.” His chest puffed with pride. “He showed me how to hold a sword, too, but I’m not allowed to practice yet.” I smiled as I listened to them. Relief washed over me. The house that had once felt like a prison to me—cold, isolating, and oppressive—was now a place of joy and belonging for my children. Zayn had changed. Or maybe it was everyone who had changed, seeing him now through the eyes of Elian and Aria, who only saw their father trying to make up for lost time.By t
Zayn’s POvThe sound of little feet pattering on the stone floors echoed through the house as Elian and Aria explored every corner of their new home. I stood at the front door, watching as Aurora crouched to say goodbye to them. Aria clung to her leg for a moment before bounding back toward the maids who were already doting on her with dresses and accessories. Elian, on the other hand, was already eyeing me, a mix of curiosity and excitement in his eyes. Aurora stood and turned to me, a playful smile on her lips. “Good luck, Alpha,” she teased. “They’ve got a lot of energy.” I grinned and leaned in, brushing my lips softly against hers. “I think I’ll manage,” I replied. Her gaze lingered on me for a moment before she whispered, “Have fun.” With that, she stepped away and headed toward the car. As soon as the door closed, Elian came to stand beside me, his little chest puffed out like he was already the man of the house. “What are we doing today, Dad?” he asked, his voice full of d
The day began like any other in my new office within the pack’s headquarters. I had been trying to adjust to this new chapter of my life, juggling motherhood, work, and figuring out where Zayn and I stood. My desk was scattered with papers, yet my thoughts constantly drifted to him and the way his presence filled the spaces around me. It wasn’t long before a knock sounded at my door. Before I could respond, Clara poked her head in, a wide grin on her face. “Delivery for you,” she sang, stepping inside with a beautiful bouquet of roses nestled in her hands. They were a deep crimson, the petals perfect and vibrant. “What’s this?” I asked, my heart skipping as she placed the flowers on my desk. I caught sight of a card tucked neatly within the arrangement. My fingers trembled as I opened it. Aurora, Would you do me the honor of letting me take you out tonight? I’ll pick you up at seven. Wear this and let me show you something special. -ZaynAlong with the flowers was an elegant, s
The air inside the dungeon was suffocating, heavy with dampness and the faint metallic scent of rust. My footsteps echoed against the cold stone floor as I followed the guard. Every step felt harder than the last, but I couldn’t turn back. Not now. Not after everything. “He’s in the last cell,” the guard said, his voice flat. I nodded, not trusting myself to speak, and continued down the dimly lit corridor. When I reached the end, I saw him. Derek. He was sitting on a wooden bench, his elbows resting on his knees, muttering something under his breath. At the sound of my approach, he looked up. For a split second, there was a flicker of something in his eyes—surprise? Regret? I couldn’t tell. But then that twisted smile appeared, and any hope of decency vanished. “Aurora,” he drawled, leaning back against the wall as though he didn’t have a care in the world. “Finally decided to come and see me. Took you long enough.” I swallowed the lump in my throat, forcing my voice to remain st
The day had finally come. The day I had been dreading and anticipating all at once. It was time for the move. The convoy of cars pulled up outside my house, and the kids were practically jumping out of their skin with excitement. They had never seen so many cars, and they couldn't wait to start the journey to Zayn's pack. Zayn, ever the gentleman, ushered the kids into the car with a smile, his excitement matching theirs. "Alright, you two, ready for your new life?" he asked as they scrambled into the car.Elian grinned, his eyes wide with wonder. "I can't wait to see all the wolves!" he exclaimed.Aria chimed in, bouncing in her seat. "And the food! Is it really as good as you said, Daddy?"Zayn laughed, looking at me with a knowing smile. "It's better than I can describe," he said. "You'll love it."As we drove to the pack, the kids kept asking questions, their curiosity endless. They wanted to know about everything—if Zayn had any other family, what his pack was like, and what to
The morning sun shone through the windows as I sipped my coffee, my thoughts a blur of excitement and nerves. I had just received a call from Zayn, and my heart was racing with a mixture of emotions. He wanted to throw a big feast—a grand celebration to welcome me and the kids into his pack. I didn’t know whether to be overwhelmed by the idea or to embrace it, but one thing was clear: it was a new chapter for us, and Zayn was eager to share it with the world.“ So see you soon ?” Zayn said and I smiled. “ See you soon …” I wasn’t sure how I felt about being the center of so much attention, but as I thought about it, it felt right. It felt like something we all needed—a fresh start, a new beginning. The kids were ecstatic, already planning what they’d wear and what they would say when they met the other pack members. Elian kept asking about the food, while Aria was excited to see the "cool wolves" Zayn had told her about. I put my phone down and stood up, my hands trembling slightly
It was time. There was no more avoiding it, no more sweeping it under the rug. Derek was behind all of this—the kidnapping, the fear, the betrayal. It sat heavy in my chest, twisting into something sharp and unbearable. I sat at the edge of the couch, staring at Liv, the words tumbling out of my mouth before I could even process them. “It was Derek,” I said softly, my voice trembling.Liv, who had been pacing the room, froze mid-step. Her eyebrows shot up in shock, but then her expression shifted, softening into something more resigned. “Derek?” she repeated slowly, like she was tasting the bitterness of the word. “He was behind all of this?”I nodded, my throat tightening as I recalled the events of the last few days. “He...he hid the kids in some caravan. Aria told me everything when we found them. No food, no water—he left them there to rot.”Liv sank onto the couch beside me, her hand over her mouth. “Aurora, I—” She paused, shaking her head. “I don’t even know what to say.”“I